UK government accused of trying to ‘stoke culture war on climate issues’

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🗞️ Driving the news: Green MP Caroline Lucas criticized the UK government's push for investment in new gas-fired power plants as a tactic to incite a cultural conflict over climate issues ahead of a general election
• This strategy, she argues, risks derailing the country's net zero emissions target

🔭 The context: The government's proposal aims to add about 5 gigawatts of new gas power capacity for backup during low renewable energy supply, despite its commitment to fossil fuel reduction
• Critics, including shadow climate change minister Alan Whitehead, demand clarity on the number of new plants planned, pointing out the lack of detailed mention in recent government documents

🌍 Why it matters for the planet: The plan contradicts the UK's legal obligation to achieve net zero emissions by 2050, as gas-fired power, according to the Committee on Climate Change, should only account for 1-2% of the UK's power generation by the 2030s to stay on target
• Last year, gas was used to generate nearly 40% of the country's electricity

⏭️ What's next: The debate around the UK's energy strategy reveals a deep division, with some calling for a postponement of net zero targets to improve economic competitiveness
• The government, while advocating for additional gas investment, acknowledges the ongoing climate emergency and the necessity of emission reduction

💬 One quote: "We have become fundamentally uncompetitive because of this green obsession," said former minister Sir Jacob Rees-Mogg, advocating for a delay in net zero goals to ensure cheaper energy.

📈 One stat: The UK aims to maintain its climate goals, which allow gas-fired power generation to constitute only 1-2% of its total power generation by the 2030s.

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